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The Other Side (Copy)
by John Bradley (johnrushbradley@hotmail.com)

Rated: R   Genre: Horror   User Review:
NOT YET
RATED

After their parent's death, brothers Hunter and Jacob plan on renovating and selling a family cabin to cover expenses. A malevolent ghost and a strange girl put their renovation in jeopardy and change their lives forever.


This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.



FADE IN:

INT. HOUSE - EVENING
                                                            
UNKNOWN POV
                                                            
Everything is fuzzy. A DARK FIGURE has his hands wrapped
around our mouth and nose.
                                                            
                       WOMAN
      (muffled)
Please...No!
                                                            
Several seconds of violent struggling. Our POV goes limp.
The Dark Figure releases his grip.
                                                            
 
EXT. MATHERS' HOUSE - EVENING
                                                            
The snow capped Rocky Mountains loom in the background.
                                                            
A sleepy street in the burbs. A bustling wind kicks up
golden brown leaves.
                                                            
Several lights are on in the house. A light from the kitchen
illuminates a figure bustling about.
                                                            
 
INT. MATHERS' KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
DARLENE MATHERS, 30ish, barefoot and loosened up dress suit,
a woman with a lot on her plate, bustles from the stove to
the fridge, preparing dinner for her family.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
      (yells)
Are you boys behaving up there?
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5) (O.S.)
We're playing hide and seek, don't
ruin it!
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Okay, you have one hour till
dinner's ready.
                                                            
SIZZLE!
                                                            
Darlene turns. Water boils over from a pot, evaporating on
the hot stove top. Darlene rushes over and lift the pot up.
                                                            

2.

                       DARLENE
Dammit!
                                                            
 
INT. HUNTER AND JACOB'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
A bunk bed, super hero posters, and all kinds of neat toys.
Everything a 5 year old boy could want.
                                                            
HUNTER(5), a radiant rascal seemingly on an endless sugar
high, has his hands covering his eyes.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
Twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty.
Ready or not, here I come!
                                                            
Hunter lowers his hands and deviously looks around. He paces
toward the bedroom door.
                                                            
UPSTAIRS HALLWAY
                                                            
Hunter(5) creeps out of his bedroom. The parent's bedroom
across from him, stairs leading downstairs, an office, a
closet, and bathroom.
                                                            
Hunter(5) considers his options.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
O' where O' where are you hiding?
                                                            
BATHROOM
                                                            
JACOD(4), dark hair and piercing eyes, a bit of an edge to
him, peeks through the crease of the door, sees Hunter(5)
open the office door.
                                                            
A pair of eyes deviously peek through the shower curtain.
They belong to BILLY, (6), pale with dark hair. A hint of
darkness behind the innocent façade.
                                                            
Jacob turns to Billy.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
      (whispers)
He's coming!
                                                            
UPSTAIRS HALLWAY
                                                            
Hunter(5) makes his way towards the bathroom.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
I hear you in there!
                                                            

3.

He enters.
                                                            
BATHROOM
                                                            
Hunter(5) goes further in, misses Jacob(4) cowering behind
the door. He sees Billy's silhouette behind the shower
curtain.
                                                            
Hunter(5) hurries over, swings the shower curtain open.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
Gotcha!
                                                            
A bemused looks strikes Hunter's(5) face. The shower is
empty. He turns, sees Jacob(4) in the doorway.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Crap.
                                                            
GIGGLES O.S.
                                                            
Hunter(5) and Jacob(4) both turn. Billy dashes across the
hallway to the boys bedroom.
                                                            
                       BILLY
You guys are too easy!
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Darlene, at the counter, chops a cucumber on a cutting
board.
                                                            
PHONE RINGS
                                                            
Startled, Darlene misses her mark, slicing her finger open.
She recoils.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Dammit!
                                                            
                       JACOB(4) (O.S.)
Mommy said a bad word!
                                                            
Darlene grabs a paper towel, squeezes it over her wound. The
phone continues to RING.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
No I didn't, you heard me wrong!
                                                            
Darlene rushes to the phone, answers it.
                                                            

4.

                       DARLENE
Hello?
(pause)
Why?
(shakes her head)
What were you doing at the cabin?
(sighs)
Okay, I will save you dinner in
the fridge.
(pause)
Love you too.
                                                            
Darlene hangs the phone up. Her eyes shift towards the
stairs. It's quiet upstairs. Too quiet.
                                                            
HUNTER AND JACOB'S BEDROOM
                                                            
Hunter(5), Jacob(4), and Billy sit on the floor in the
middle of the room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
      (to Billy)
You always win at hide and seek.
                                                            
                       BILLY
      (smiles)
Yeah, I know.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Maybe we should play a different
game.
                                                            
                       DARLENE (O.S.)
You boys doing okay?
                                                            
The three boys turn. Darlene stands at the doorway,
blood-soaked paper towel around her finger.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
We're fine.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
What happened to your finger?
                                                            
DARLENE'S POV
                                                            
Hunter(5) and Jacob(4) stare back at her. Billy is no longer
there.
                                                            

5.

                       DARLENE
It's just a little boo-boo.
Daddy's dealing with a problem at
the cabin, so he's not coming home
till late.
                                                            
                                         BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Hunter(5), Jacob(4), and Billy, back where he was, look
disappointed.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
I'll yell when dinner's ready.
                                                            
Darlene exits the room.
                                                            
                       BILLY
I have an idea for a game.
                                                            
Billy stands and hurries to the toy chest, rummages through
it. After a moment, he pulls out a Superman cape.
                                                            
Hunter(5) and Jacob(4) stare at him quizzically.
                                                            
                       BILLY
This here is a real cape from
Superman's home planet. It can
give you super powers.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
      (excited)
Really?!
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
      (skeptical)
No it's not.
                                                            
                       BILLY
I'll prove it to you.
                                                            
Billy ties the cape around his neck, opens the second story
bedroom window. He hops up on the sill. Hunter(5) and
Jacob(4) stare in awe.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
      (scared)
Be careful, Billy!
                                                            
Billy turns his back to the window and lets himself fall.
Hunter(5) and Jacob(4) gasp.
                                                            
Billy floats back up, a smile on his face.
                                                            

6.

                       BILLY
Pretty cool, huh?
                                                            
Billy floats back in, his feet touch the ground. Hunter(5)
and Jacob's mouths are agape.
                                                            
                       BILLY
Who wants to play with it next?
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
I do!
                                                            
Jacob(4) shoves Hunter(5), grabs the cape Billy, his eyes
transfixed on it.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Me first.
                                                            
Billy and Jacob(4) exchange a smile. Billy helps tie the
cape on Jacob(4)'s back.
                                                            
                       BILLY
We're going to be best friends
forever.
                                                            
A tense moment. Jacob(4) slowly climbs on the window, his
legs shake.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
      (nervously)
I'm not sure about this, Jacob.
                                                            
                       BILLY
      (to Jacob)
You're not chicken, are you?
                                                            
Jacob(4) musters courage at the challenge, shakes his head
'no'.
                                                            
                       BILLY
Then what are you waiting for?
                                                            
Jacob(4) closes his eyes and drops back. Silence. A loud
THUD!
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
Jacob!
                                                            
Billy smiles and skips out the of the bedroom. Hunter(5)
rushes to the window.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            

7.

Jacob(4), unconscious, lies sprawled on the grass below, his
body mangled, blood trickles from his nose.
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
      (screams)
Jacob!
                                                            
FOOTSTEPS O.S. rush up the stairs.
                                                            
                       DARLENE (O.S.)
What happened? What's going on?
                                                            
Darlene's head pokes out the window.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Oh my God, Jacob!
                                                            
 
EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAIN MEDICAL CENTER - NIGHT
                                                            
They quiet night is broken by an ambulance speeds to the
front Emergency Room door.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - MORNING
                                                            
Bright light beams through the windows. A respirator gives a
rhythmic BEEP.
                                                            
Jacob(4), eyes shut, lies in the bed. His body intertwined
with tubes and machines.
                                                            
A few feet away
                                                            
Darlene and Hunter(5) lie asleep in the visitor's chairs.
Despite their sleep, the looks of a long, worry filled night
are still there.
                                                            
Jacob's(4) eyes slowly blink open. He weakly looks around,
searching for familiarity. He slides the respirator from his
mouth.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Mom? Hunter?
                                                            
Darlene and Hunter(5) open their eyes. Darlene bolts up,
rushes to Jacob's(4) side and cusps his hand.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Are you in any pain?
                                                            
Jacob's(4) eyes search the room.
                                                            

8.

                       JACOB(4)
Where's dad?
                                                            
                       DARLENE
He went to get us breakfast.
(pause)
Jacob?
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Yeah.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Why did you jump from the window?
                                                            
Jacob(4) turns to Hunter(5), who looks down, avoiding eye
contact.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Billy did it first, he had the
cape -- I saw him fly.
                                                            
Darlene, trying her best to mask anger, shakes her head.
Tears swell in her eyes.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Jacob, there is no Billy, you
didn't see anyone fly.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
      (hurt)
But, he did! I swear!
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Stop!
(softer)
Please, just stop, Jacob.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
I'm telling the truth!
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Jacob, you're not feeling well.
                                                            
Jacob(4) turns back to Hunter(5) who guiltily stares at the
floor, arms crossed.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Tell her, Hunter! Tell her about
Billy!
                                                            
Darlene glares at Hunter. His eyes meet hers, filled with
fear. She waits for a response.
                                                            

9.

                       HUNTER(5)
I don't know what he is talking
about.
                                                            
Jacob's(4) eyes penetrate Hunter(5), the betrayal and hurt
evident.
                                                            
Darlene gently places her hand on Jacob's(4) arm.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
I promise, sweetie, your father
and I are going to do everything
we can to get you the help that
you need.
                                                            
Jacob(4) sulks.
                                                            
 
EXT. MATHERS' HOUSE - NIGHT
                                                            
A full moon partially covered by dark clouds. The street is
quiet. An upstairs light turns off in the house.
                                                            
 
INT. HUNTER AND JACOB'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter(5) and Jacob(4), cast on his arm, lie in bed. The
lights off.
                                                            
The door opens, Darlene enters. She walks up to Hunter(5),
kisses him on the forehead.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Sleep well, buttercup.
                                                            
Darlene shifts over to Jacob(4), gives him a look of love
and worry.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Your father and I talked it over
and tomorrow we are taking you to
see our friend Dr. Schuster about
your friend Billy.
                                                            
A WHISTLE FROM THE HALLWAY. Jacob(4) turns. Billy peeks in
the door, a devious smile. He giggles and skips away.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Did you see him, he was just
here--!
                                                            
Darlene shushes him. Kisses his forehead.
                                                            

10.

                       DARLENE
You can talk with Dr. Schuster
about that tomorrow.
                                                            
Darlene meanders to the door.
                                                            
                       DARLENE
Sweet dreams my angels.
                                                            
She closes the door. Her FOOTSTEPS walk towards her room.
Several moments of silence.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Hunter?
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
What?
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Why did you lie to mom about
Billy?
                                                            
Silence.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
Hunter?
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
I didn't lie. You heard Mom, he's
just an imaginary friend. He's not
real.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
You know he's real!
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
You're in enough trouble, I don't
wanna be too.
                                                            
                       JACOB(4)
But--
                                                            
                       HUNTER(5)
I don't want to talk about it
anymore.
                                                            
Hunter(5) rolls over, turning his back to Jacob(4). Jacob(4)
softly cries.
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
--INT. THERAPIST OFFICE - DAY
                                                            

11.

Jacob(4) sits in a colorful chair, toys surround him. An
obvious attempt at comfort.
                                                            
DR. SCHUSTER takes notes as he listens to Jacob(4) speak.
                                                            
                       DR. SCHUSTER
Tell me when you first met Billy?
                                                            
--EXT. PARK - DAY
                                                            
Hunter(5) boisterously plays a game of tag with several
neighborhood kids.
                                                            
                       NEIGHBORHOOD KID
Tag, you're it!
                                                            
NEIGHBORHOOD KID tags Hunter(5), They both giggle. Hunter(5)
gives chase.
                                                            
--INT. SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY
                                                            
TEEN JACOB, dark clothes, dark hair, socially awkward, sits
at a table by himself. He doodles on a piece of paper.
                                                            
Several KIDS walk bye, joking amongst themselves. Teen Jacob
watches them. They don't even notice him.
                                                            
--INT. HIGH SCHOOL GYM - DAY
                                                            
A full court basketball game in progress.
                                                            
TEEN HUNTER, sharp, tall, and well adjusted, dribbles the
ball past a defender and scores an easy basket.
                                                            
-- INT. JACOB'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
A pick strums against a guitar.
                                                            
JACOB, 18, dark clothes, dark hair, hurt in his eyes, plays
his guitar to HEAVY METAL MUSIC.
                                                            
--INT. BOWLING ALLEY - NIGHT
                                                            
HUNTER, 19, dashing and charming, giggles with his date
after she rolls a gutter ball.
                                                            
They exchange a quick kiss.
                                                            
                                         END SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
 

12.

INT. JACOB'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
HEAVY METAL PLAYS
                                                            
Jacob, on his bed, reclines against his headboard. He opens
the window, takes a cigarette out and lights it. Inhales
deeply.
                                                            
He puts the cigarette down on the sill. He wanders through
his messy room, grabs his guitar.
                                                            
Jacob strums along to the song, drags from his cigarette.
                                                            
FAINT KNOCK AT THE DOOR. Jacob looks up, quickly tosses the
cigarette out the window.
                                                            
The door opens, Hunter recoils, as if assaulted by the
noise.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Can you turn it down a bit?
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (annoyed)
What, I can't hear you?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
That's my point.
                                                            
Hunter marches to the stereo, turns the volume down. Jacob
raises his hands.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hey!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Don't worry, I'll let you get back
to rupturing your eardrums
momentarily.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Sorry, Grandpa, was my music
disturbing you during your
programs?
                                                            
Hunter sniffs the air.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You better stop smoking in the
house, dad will kick your ass.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I was not.
                                                            

13.

                       HUNTER
I'm having a party tonight.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (upset)
Here?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
No, at the governor's mansion.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Mom and dad are--
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Not going to be home till tomorrow
afternoon and everything will be
picked up by then.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Why didn't you tell me?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Isn't that what I'm doing now?
                                                            
Jacob stands, goes to the stereo and turns the volume back
up. Sits back down. Hunter goes right back and lowers it.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm going to miss you. Secretly I
think you're going to miss me too.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (sarcastically)
I promise to write you everyday.
                                                            
Hunter chuckles. Jacob cracks a small smile.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I know you're not into parties.
The fun, social interaction,
uninhibited girls, that's not your
thing.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Yeah, a real sophisticated bunch
your soirees bring out.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You only have three more weeks to
deal with me and then I'll be in
Vegas. It would mean a lot if you
hung out for a little while and
pretended to enjoy yourself.
                                                            

14.

                       JACOB
One, maybe two hours, then I'm
back in my room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Thanks lil bro.
                                                            
Hunter turns the music back up and exits the room.
                                                            
 
EXT. MATHERS' HOUSE - NIGHT
                                                            
All of the lights shine from the house The faint sound of
music blares.
                                                            
A car full of TEENAGERS pulls up to the street and parks.
The kids get out and head up to the front porch.
                                                            
 
INT. MATHERS' LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Dim lighting, music playing, a fun atmosphere.
                                                            
About a dozen or so Teens with red plastic party cups.
Casual dress. Everyone knows everyone.
                                                            
Jacob, awkwardly wanders in from the kitchen, carrying a cup
of his own. He looks around searching. Sees Hunter, makes
his way towards him.
                                                            
MARK, 19, short and abrasive, his clothes trying too hard to
impress approaches the brothers.
                                                            
                       MARK
Look who has risen from his cave.
                                                            
Jacob flips Mark off. Hunter pats Jacob on the back.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Glad you're hanging out.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Can't believe I'm saying this, but
I'm really going to miss--
                                                            
ATTRACTIVE BLONDE and HOT BRUNETTE approach the 3 boys, who
turn.
                                                            
                       ATTRACTIVE BLONDE
We need a third for beer pong.
                                                            
Hunter looks and points at Jacob.
                                                            

15.

                       HUNTER
How about my little brother, Jake?
                                                            
Attractive Blonde and Hot Brunette give Jacob a polite, but
disinterested smile.
                                                            
                       HOT BRUNETTE
C'mon Hunter, we want you to play.
                                                            
                       ATTRACTIVE BLONDE
Yeah, you're the one that's
leaving soon, you gotta play!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Maybe latter--
                                                            
The two ladies grab Hunter and drag him away. Mark follows.
Jacob watches, no one left.
                                                            
                       HOT BRUNETTE
We wont take no for an answer.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Alright, game on.
                                                            
Jacob looks around uncomfortably. He meanders through the
party and out the back door.
                                                            
 
EXT. MATHERS' BACK PORCH - NIGHT
                                                            
Blackness. Crickets CHIRP. A cigarette smolders. Jacob takes
it out and exhales.
                                                            
Green patio chairs and a glass table decorate a well kept
back yard.
                                                            
Jacob lowers his head and closes his eyes and drops his
head.
                                                            
                       KIDS VOICE (V.O.)
Hey, Jacob!
                                                            
Jacob pops up in his chair, nervously looks around. Silence.
His pulse rises.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hello? Is somebody there?
                                                            
                       KIDS VOICE (V.O.)
Don't you recognize my voice? It's
me, Billy!
                                                            

16.

Jacob recoils, falling out of his chair. He quickly stands,
his eyes scan around.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Mo...no...no...
                                                            
                       KIDS VOICE (V.O.)
Don't you want to play with me?
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (yells)
Stay away from me!
                                                            
The back door opens, several party goers look out, snicker
at Jacob.
                                                            
The Kid's Voice LAUGHS hysterically. Jacob looks around,
scared, confused, embarrassed. Hunter runs out the door to
Jacob.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What happened?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I don't know?
                                                            
An upstairs window opens. Mark pops his head out laughing, a
walkie-talkie in his hand. He pushes the button.
                                                            
                       MARK
      (kids voice)
Don't you want to play with me?
                                                            
The voice echoes through the other walkie-talkie buried in a
planter.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (fuming)
Fuck you!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (angry)
Not cool, Mark.
                                                            
                       MARK
I was just playing a little prank
on Jacob.
                                                            
Jacob storms back to the house.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, he didn't--
                                                            

17.

Hunter puts a hand on his shoulder. Jacob shoves him away,
slams the door as he enters the house.
                                                            
Hunter looks up, glares a hole through Mark, who offers him
an apologetic smile.
                                                            
 
EXT. MATHERS' HOUSE - MORNING
                                                            
A couple red plastic cups litter the front yard. A car
drives bye, a newspaper flies out the window.
                                                            
 
INT. MATHERS' HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter, still in the same clothes from the night before,
rubs the sleep from his eyes as he makes his way towards
Jacob's room.
                                                            
Hunter KNOCKS...No response.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You up, baby brother?
                                                            
Hunter turns the knob. The door is locked.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm sorry about last night, Mark
was a dick.
                                                            
Silence.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I made breakfast. There's a plate
of bacon with your name on it.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
Leave it at the door.
                                                            
Hunter smirks, shuffles off to the kitchen. A couple seconds
later, he is back, plate of bacon in hand. He sets it down
outside Jacob's room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm hopping in the shower.
                                                            
Hunter walks off and turns into the bathroom, closing the
door behind him. The SHOWER TURNS ON.
                                                            
Jacob opens his bedroom door, happily looks at the plate of
bacon. He picks it up and takes a bite.
                                                            
HOUSE PHONE RINGS
                                                            

18.

Jacob groans, grabs the plate of bacon and takes it into the
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Jacob answers the phone.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hello?
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
      (nervous)
Jacob?
                                                            
                       JACOB
What's going on, Mom?
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
I don't know, I'm really scared.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What is it? Tell me what's
happening?
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
I've lost your father, he's not
with me anymore.
                                                            
The concern on Jacob's face grows with each answered
question.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What? What are you talking about,
you lost him?
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
He's not with me anymore.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Where's the last place you saw
him?
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
We were driving down the
Sidewinder...
                                                            
INTERCUT
                                                            
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - DAY
                                                            
An older BMW handles the curvy mountain road. It drives into
a hazy, gray fog.
                                                            
                                         BACK TO SCENE
                                                            

19.

                       JACOB
Where are you? I'm coming to get
you right now!
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
I, I have to go.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Tell me where you are so I can
come get you!
                                                            
                       DARLENE (V.O.)
I love you, Jacob. Tell Hunter
that I love him too.
                                                            
Tears swell in Jacob's eyes.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Mom...
                                                            
CLICK. The call is disconnected. Jacob, in a daze, hangs up.
He stares into space.
                                                            
The bathroom door opens. Hunter steps out, covered in a bath
towel. He makes his way into the living room, curiously eyes
Jacob.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You've barely touched your bacon.
                                                            
No response from Jacob.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Who called?
                                                            
Still no response from Jacob. Hunter steps in front of him,
snaps his fingers.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Anyone home?
                                                            
Jacob's eyes rise and meet Hunter's.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Earth to Jacob, do you copy?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Yeah?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's going on?
                                                            

20.

                       JACOB
Mom called, she sends her love.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Huh?
                                                            
The DOORBELL RINGS
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob's eyes don't break for several seconds.
                                                            
The DOORBELL RINGS AGAIN
                                                            
Hunter, with concern and curiosity in his eyes, turns his
attention away from Jacob. He makes his way to the door,
opens it.
                                                            
Two STATE TROOPERS stand on the other side.
                                                            
                       STATE TROOPER
Is this the Mathers' residence?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yes, what's going on?
                                                            
The State Troopers remove and lower their caps.
                                                            
 
INT. CATHOLIC CHURCH - DAY
                                                            
Pews packed with Mourners, dressed in black. Hunter and
Jacob, both puffy and teary eyed, sit in the front row.
                                                            
                       STATE TROOPER (V.O.)
We have some unfortunate news.
                                                            
                       HUNTER (V.O.)
What happened?
                                                            
A PRIEST stands at his pulpit. Two closed caskets behind
him.
                                                            
                       STATE TROOPER (V.O.)
There was a terrible fog on the
Sidewinder. We responded to
several accidents up there today.
                                                            
                       HUNTER (V.O.)
Just say it!
                                                            
                       STATE TROOPER (V.O.)
Your parents are gone.
                                                            
 

21.

INT. LAW OFFICE - DAY
                                                            
Jacob and Hunter sits in chair next to an oak desk. Opposite
them, LAWYER looks over paperwork.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What does that mean?
                                                            
                       LAWYER
Unfortunately, your parents let
their life insurance policy lapse.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
So we are screwed for money?
                                                            
                       JACOB
The funeral was almost twelve
grand.
                                                            
                       LAWYER
      (to Hunter)
Not necessarily.
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob give Lawyer a quizzical look.
                                                            
                       LAWYER
When's the last time you've been
to your father's cabin in
Firestone?
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob ponder the question.
                                                            
 
INT. MATHERS' LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Jacob sits on the couch, lost in his thoughts. The house is
still, silent.
                                                            
The front door opens, Hunter enters.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I still think they're just going
to walk through the front door.
                                                            
Hunter takes a seat next to Jacob, has a serious expression.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm not going to U.N.L.V.
                                                            

22.

                       JACOB
The semester starts in a week, are
you joking? You've been looking
forward to going there for a year!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm just taking one semester off,
to get everything settled.
                                                            
                       JACOB
That's a big sacrifice.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You're all I have left and I'm all
you have left. I just want to make
sure everything is settled before
I leave.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Yeah, I appreciate that.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I was thinking you and me could
take a month and fix up the cabin.
If we sell or rent it, that'd help
a ton with our bills.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (laughs)
You and me in a cabin for a month?
That can't be good.
                                                            
 
EXT. WOODLAND ROAD - DAY
                                                            
Gorgeous scenery. Miles and miles of lush woods,
interspersed with tiny homes and businesses.
                                                            
A curvy mountain road. A green Jeep speeds along.
                                                            
INT. HUNTER'S JEEP - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter drives. Jacob rides shotgun. A ROCK SONG JAMS on the
radio.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (angry)
Why is he coming?
                                                            

23.

                       HUNTER
Mark's a little rough around the
edges, but he's not a bad guy.
He's volunteering his time to help
us.
                                                            
                       JACOB
He makes me angry just looking at
him.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
We haven't been to that cabin in
like, ten years.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Actually it's been more like
thirteen.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Whatever. My point is who knows
how much shit we're going to have
to fix. We can use all the help we
can get.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I guess you're right.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
So you will play nice?
                                                            
Jacob flips him off. Hunter laughs.
                                                            
                       JACOB
When's he getting there, anyway?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
He's picking up the U-Haul, so
maybe an hour after us.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Mark might be a total tool, but at
least he's your tool.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
That's the spirit.
                                                            
 
EXT. WOODLAND ROAD - DAY
                                                            
The Jeep zooms further up the curvy road.
                                                            
LATER
                                                            

24.

The Jeep crawls along, entering a small town. A sign reads
"Welcome to Firestone, Colorado".
                                                            
Mom and Pop shops litter what could be generously called
Main Street. If you're looking to escape society, you've
come to the right place.
                                                            
 
INT. HUNTER'S JEEP - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob stare out the window, admiring the scenery.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I don't know how but this town is
smaller than I remember it.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Keep an eyes out for the street.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What's it called again?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Lakeside Drive.
                                                            
Jacob laughs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What?
                                                            
                       JACOB
You passed it three years back.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Shit.
                                                            
EXT. SMALL TOWN ROAD
                                                            
The Jeep brakes hard, the makes a quick u-turn. Drives back
the way they came.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN DRIVEWAY - DAY
                                                            
A thorny wilderness separates the cabin from an expansive
lake.
                                                            
The cabin is rustic in appearance, untouched for years.
Neighbors few and far between.
                                                            
A U-Haul truck is parked in front of the house. Mark stands
by the driver's side door, impatiently fidgeting.
                                                            

25.

Hunter's Jeep pulls up, parks next to the U-Haul. Hunter and
Jacob get out.
                                                            
                       MARK
Where the hell have you been?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mark, you're early.
                                                            
                       MARK
The hell I am! You told me one
O'clock.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I said two.
                                                            
Mark pulls out his phone, shoves it in Hunter's face.
                                                            
                       MARK
I have the text right here.
                                                            
Hunter looks it over, realizes his mistake.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Awe shit man, I'm sorry about
that.
                                                            
                       MARK
Why haven't you been answering
your phone, I've called like eight
times?
                                                            
Hunter's PHONE BEEPS. He pulls it out of his pocket, shows
it to Mark.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Service is pretty spotty out here.
It's non existent going through
the canyon.
                                                            
The three turn and face the cabin, sizing it up.
                                                            
                       MARK
Jacob, it's good to see you.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Likewise.
                                                            
A slight hint of hostility in Mark and Jacob's voices.
Hunter notices.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Let's get settled in.
                                                            

26.

They three make their way to the porch and up the freely
wooden stairs.
                                                            
                       MARK
Why did your dad just let this
place sit here? He could have
rented or sold it.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I've wonder that myse--
                                                            
Hunter's foot crashes through a stair. He goes tumbling.
Jacob catches him before he takes a really bad fall.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Jesus!
                                                            
                       MARK
You alright?
                                                            
Jacob and Mark help Hunter to the top of the stairs. He
brushes himself off.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yeah, no, I'm fantastic.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Well, I know the first thing that
needs to be fixed.
                                                            
Hunter takes out a key and unlocks the front door.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
A dusty couch, oak table, old box television. Wood stained
walls, sporadically lined with nature art.
                                                            
A brick fireplace filled with decades old ash on the
opposite side of the room.
                                                            
The door opens, the three guys enter.
                                                            
                       MARK
It's really...rustic.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Some people like rustic.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (to Mark)
You ready for the grand tour?
                                                            

27.

                       MARK
      (sarcastic)
It won't take long, will it?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Anyway, here's the living room.
                                                            
The three make their way into the
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Quaint in size. A fridge, stove, microwave, all predating
1970. Hunter leads the way, followed by Jacob and Mark.
                                                            
Hunter motions to the microwave.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This may or may not be an
authentic World War One relic.
                                                            
                       MARK
It's not going to explode if I use
it?
                                                            
                       JACOB
No, but there is a good chance
you'll get cancer from using that
thing.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (to Mark)
I might have you sign a waiver.
                                                            
Jacob flips a light switch, the bulb comes on.
                                                            
                       JACOB
At least we have electricity.
                                                            
The bulb explodes. The three jump back.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Okay, that's number two on our
list.
                                                            
The three walk up the hallway stairs.
                                                            
MAIN BEDROOM
                                                            
A queen sized bed with a large mirror above it, a dresser
off to the side.
                                                            
The three walk in.
                                                            

28.

                       HUNTER
Our parents old room. That may or
may not be the bed Jacob was
conceived on.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hey!
                                                            
SMALL BEDROOM
                                                            
Two twin bed, a dresser, and a box of old toys. The three
enter.
                                                            
                       JACOB
It's like walking into a time
capsule.
                                                            
Hunter's eyes light up, he rushes to the toy box, pulls out
an action figure.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
My Mega Man! I thought I lost it
when we were kids.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (to Mark)
All Hunter needs now is chocolate
milk and some comic books and we
won't see him for hours.
                                                            
Hunter gets up, heads for the door. Jacob and Mark follow.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Hey, Mark, wanna hear about
Jacob's blanket?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Don't you dare!
                                                            
BASEMENT
                                                            
Near pitch black. The door opens, light floods in revealing
the three silhouettes. A chain is pulled, turning on a
spiderweb covered light bulb.
                                                            
The three stare down into the dingy basement.
                                                            
                       MARK
Anything down there?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mostly just old junk, I'd imagine.
                                                            

29.

                       JACOB
Wanna take a look?
                                                            
Mark sniffs the air, a disgusted reaction.
                                                            
                       MARK
Oh, God.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What?
                                                            
                       MARK
You don't smell that?
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob sniff the air, the same look crosses their
faces.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's like rotten hamburger meat.
                                                            
                       MARK
Maybe we can save the basement
tour for later.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Sounds good to me.
                                                            
Hunter shuts the light off, closes the door as the three
leave.
                                                            
In the darkness, a SHADOW MAN moves from the staircase, back
further into the basement.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Mark, Jacob and Hunter make their way through the room.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Alright, I'm going to get our
stuff from the Jeep.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm going to hit the can, I'll be
out to help in a minute.
                                                            
                       MARK
Right when the work starts.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
                                                            
Mark and Jacob exit the front door. Hunter hurries up the
stairs and enters the
                                                            

30.

BATHROOM
                                                            
Hunter stands at the toilet, undoes his pants. Pee hits the
water.
                                                            
Hunter leans back, closes his eyes.
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Stay away.
                                                            
Hunter's eyes pop open, he nervously looks around.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Hello?
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Hunter...
                                                            
Hunter zips up his pants, looks around. A tense moment.
                                                            
KNOCK AT THE DOOR. Hunter jumps, startled.
                                                            
                       MARK (O.S.)
You almost done in there?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (snaps)
Jesus, can't a guy take a piss in
pieces?
                                                            
                       MARK (O.S.)
Geez, sorry.
                                                            
Mark's footsteps move away. Hunter flushes the toilet,
curiously looks around the room.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DAY
                                                            
The sun hangs high. Light reflects off the lake, brightening
the woods.
                                                            
The U-Haul and Jeep are parked in the driveway.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Hunter, Jacob, and Mark, all on hands and knees scrubbing
the floor.
                                                            
                       MARK
So why has it been so long since
your parents brought you out here?
                                                            

31.

Jacob and Hunter exchange a questioning look, both shrug.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
They were very busy, I guess.
                                                            
Hunter pushes a chair out of the way, begins to scrub under
it, stops, Something has caught his eye.
                                                            
Something is wedged in the crack of the wooden floor. He
picks it up, a faded yellow butterfly ear ring.
                                                            
Jacob glances at Hunter.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Found something?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Just an old ear ring. Must've been
an old one of Mom's.
                                                            
Hunter pockets the ear ring in his coat pocket, continues
scrubbing. Mark stops, looks around.
                                                            
                       MARK
You guys seen my cell phone?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I think you left it on the charger
in the big bedroom.
                                                            
Mark gets up, stretches.
                                                            
                       MARK
Gotta see if I have any missed
texts from the ladies.
                                                            
Jacob rolls his eyes. Hunter smirks.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You go do that.
                                                            
Mark hurries up the stairs to the
                                                            
MAIN BEDROOM
                                                            
Mark shuffles in, spots his cell phone. He goes to it, picks
it up, searches his message.
                                                            
                       MARK
No new texts?
(shrugs)
Must be the bad service.
                                                            

32.

Mark meanders, looking around. He approaches the window, his
fingers part the curtain.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
A picturesque view of the lake, a bench right on the shore,
a couple row boats tied to a small dock not far. The raw
Forrest surrounds it.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Mark stares out, transfixed.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
A ripple of water in the middle of the lake.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Mark's face is a mask of confusion. It slowly turns from
confusion, to fear, to horror. But he can't stop looking. He
shakes.
                                                            
Urine trickles down Mark's leg.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Jacob and Hunter continue at scrubbing the floor.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Remember that fish I caught on the
lake, that thing was a foot and a
half?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (laughs)
Dude, that thing was like four
inches.
                                                            
                       JACOB
That's not how I remember it.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yeah, you were like four, I'm sure
that's how big it seemed in your
mind.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Funny how we remember things
differently from that age.
                                                            
Hunter regards Jacob, realizing the loaded comment.
                                                            

33.

MARK'S SCREAM ECHOES FROM UPSTAIRS
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob look up, concerned. Mark comes barreling
down the stairs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's going--?
                                                            
Marry shoves Hunter and Jacob out of the way as he rushes to
the front door. He opens it and bolts out.
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob slowly go after him.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN DRIVEWAY - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Mark hurries to the U-Haul. Hunter and Jacob exit the house.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mark, where are you going?
                                                            
Without turning back, Mark opens the U-Haul door, gets in
and STARTS it.
                                                            
Tires spit mud as the truck hauls ass out of there.
                                                            
The truck flips and tears down the road.
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob look on in total confusion. Jacob pats
Hunter on the back.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Looks like we're going to need
another U-Haul.
                                                            
Jacob walks back inside. Hunter watches as the U-Haul turns
the corner and drives out of sight.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - KITCHEN - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter stands by the window, staring out at the woods and
the still lake. The moon hovers behind a cluster of clouds.
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
      (faintly)
Hunter.
                                                            
Hunter shivers, looks to his side.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
Hunter.
                                                            

34.

Hunter jumps, turns to see Jacob standing behind him.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You're not turning into Mark, are
you?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I didn't hear you come in.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I just wanted to ask, who gets
which room?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I don't know, which one did you
want?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I'd feel weird sleeping in our
parents' old room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Then you can have our old room,
I'll take theirs.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Thanks.
                                                            
Jacob turns and starts to walk away.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Hey, Jacob.
                                                            
Jacob stops and turns back.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What happened to Mark, you didn't
have anything to do with that did
you?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Huh?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This wasn't payback for Mark
messing with you at the party?
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (Slightly angry)
As much as I enjoyed cleaning up
his piss, no I didn't. I was down
here with you, remember?
                                                            

35.

                       HUNTER
Yeah.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Have you heard from him?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
No, he left his phone here. No
one's heard from him.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I'm going to bed, I'll see you in
the morning.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Sweet dreams little brother.
                                                            
Jacob smiles and walks up the stairs. A bedroom door shuts.
                                                            
Hunter takes one last glance out the window at the lake. He
turns back and shuts the light off.
                                                            
 
INT. LARGE BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter shuffles in, quickly changes into pajama bottoms. He
turns off the light and slides into bed.
                                                            
Hunter lies there in silence.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Love you, Mom. Love you, Dad.
                                                            
His eyes drift close.
                                                            
DREAM SEQUENCE
                                                            
 
INT. CAR - DAY
                                                            
HUNTER'S POV
                                                            
Everything is fuzzy and out of focus.
                                                            
Hunter drives. A ROCK SONG PLAYS.
                                                            
He drives up a curvy canyon road. He turns to the PASSENGER,
an attractive young girl we can't quite make out.
                                                            
A HORN HONKS. A car is coming right at him. Hunter swerves
out of the way.
                                                            
                                         END DREAM SEQUENCE
                                                            
 

36.

EXT. TOWN ROAD - MORNING
                                                            
A HORN HONKS
                                                            
Hunter, in his pajamas, without a shirt, opens his eyes.
He's in the middle of the road. Headlights come straight at
him.
                                                            
A truck swerves out of the way not to hit him. Hunter jumps
back, confused, he looks around.
                                                            
                       ANGRY DRIVER
The hell's wrong with you? Get off
the drugs!
                                                            
Angry Driver floors the gas, sending a plume of smoke in
Hunter's face.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN DRIVEWAY - LATER
                                                            
Hunter's bare feet tip-toe up the cold dirt driveway. He
gets to the porch and let's himself in the front door.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter enters, closes the door slowly, trying not to make
any noise.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
Where'd you go?
                                                            
Startled, Hunter, jumps, turns to see Jacob in the kitchen
with a glass of water.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jesus, you scared me.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Was having a hard time sleeping,
just came down for a glass of
water. You?
                                                            
Jacob stares at Hunter, questioningly. Hunter looks himself
up and down.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Guess I just felt like taking a
walk.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Fucking weirdo.
                                                            

37.

Jacob shakes his head and walks back up the stairs. Hunter
rubs his hands over his face, meanders to the stairs.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DAY
                                                            
Birds chirp and play, flying from one tree to the next.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Jacob, meanders from the stairs, yawns and stretches. He
grabs a glass and pours a glass of orange juice. He turns,
looks toward the
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Hunter sits on the couch, his face haggard.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hey.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Hey.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Feeling alright?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Not really.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Couple of nights, you'll get used
to it here.
                                                            
Hunter stands, makes his way to the door.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I need some caffeine in the worst
way. You want a coffee, energy
drink?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Yeah, an energy drink would be
great.
                                                            
Hunter grabs his keys off the table and heads to the front
door.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'll be back.
                                                            

38.

                       JACOB
I'll be here.
                                                            
Hunter closes the door behind him as he leaves.
                                                            
Jacob chugs his juice, puts the glass in the sink. Something
catches his eye. He moves toward the window.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
A young woman sits on the bench overlooking the lake, her
back to the house. She has a book in hand.
                                                            
A small group of butterflies dance around her.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Jacob's face fills with intrigue. He watches her for several
moments. He shuffles away towards the back door.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
APRIL KILWELL, 18, intelligent eyes, a genuine to her that
is instantly recognizable. Dressed in a flower print dress,
butterfly ear rings, reading a book of Shakespeare.
                                                            
Jacob makes his way through the grassy woods. Now only 15 or
so feet from April.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hello.
                                                            
April turns, startled. She nervously eyes him over. He
realizes she is sizing him up.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (awkwardly)
Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you.
(points back)
I'm staying in the cabin back
there. I saw you out here and
thought I'd say hi.
(pause)
So, hi, I guess.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (unsure)
Hi.
                                                            
An awkward pause between them. Jacob looks to escape.
                                                            

39.

                       JACOB
You want to be alone, sorry for
intruding.
                                                            
Jacob turns to leave.
                                                            
                       APRIL
You just startled me is all, I
don't see many people out here.
                                                            
Jacob turns back.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You come here often?
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's really peaceful. I like to
come here to read and write
sometimes.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I used to come here as a kid, I
always liked it.
                                                            
April motions back to the cabin.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Are you living there?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Just for a little while. We're
planning on renovating and leasing
the place.
                                                            
                       APRIL
We?
                                                            
                       JACOB
My brother and I. Our parents died
and left us the place.
                                                            
April puts her hand on his thigh.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I'm sorry about your parents, I
know how hard that is.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You too?
                                                            
April nods. They share amount of silence. Jacob regards the
book.
                                                            

40.

                       JACOB
What are you ready?
                                                            
                       APRIL
A tragedy. I love reading,
writing. That's what I want to do,
be a writer.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What do you write?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Different things, drama, tragedy,
mystery.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What are you writing now?
                                                            
                       APRIL
A story about a misunderstood girl
who falls in love with the wrong
man.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I'm a guitar player. One day I'd
love to be in a band.
                                                            
                       APRIL
That's cool.
                                                            
TIRES GRIND DIRT
                                                            
Jacob and April turn. Hunter's Jeep cruises up the driveway,
parks.
                                                            
                       JACOB
That's my brother, I should
probably get going.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It was nice to meet you...
                                                            
                       JACOB
Jacob.
                                                            
Jacob extend his hand, April shakes it.
                                                            
                       APRIL
April.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hopefully I bump into you again.
                                                            

41.

                       APRIL
I have no doubt.
                                                            
They exchange a smile. Jacob hurries back towards the cabin.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
The front door opens, Hunter enters, struggling to carry
coffee, doughnuts, and energy drinks.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, I'm home. I brought us some
doughnuts. They're probably no
Krispy Kreme's, but we have to
make do.
                                                            
Hunter makes his way into the
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
and sets everything on the counter. Listens for a moment,
silence.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (yells)
Jacob, you here?
                                                            
The back door opens, Jacob hurries in.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
There you are.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hey.
                                                            
Hunter holds up the energy drink and doughnuts.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You're my hero.
                                                            
Jacob grabs the energy drink, opens and chugs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What were you doing?
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (awkwardly)
Just enjoying the scenery by the
lake, that's all.
                                                            
Jacob grabs a doughnut, marches up the stairs.
                                                            

42.

                       HUNTER
We got a lot to do today.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Yes boss, I'm going to shower, eat
and I'll be ready to go.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You better be. We're behind
schedule as it is.
                                                            
Jacob slams the bathroom door as he enters. A few seconds
later the shower is turned on.
                                                            
Hunter shakes his head, tired and frustrated. He meanders
toward the window, peers out.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
The bench by the lake now rests empty. Clouds hover over the
sun.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Hunter heads to the back door, exits the cabin.
                                                            
 
INT. BY THE LAKE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Hunter shuffles through the sparse woods towards the lake.
He approaches the empty bench, looks around.
                                                            
Something catches his eye. He curiously looks at the ground.
He moves closer to it.
                                                            
On the ground are a cluster of dead butterflies. He picks
one up, hold it in the palm of his hand. Then places it back
down.
                                                            
Hunter sadly looks at the sight. He gets up, glances around,
then heads back to the cabin.
                                                            
 
EXT. UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN COLORADO - DAY
                                                            
A sprawling campus with nature integrated into the design.
                                                            
Dozens of students go about their business on the several
walkways that lead through the courtyard.
                                                            
 

43.

INT. UWC BUILDING - DAY
                                                            
Classrooms occupy the building. School logos and bulletin
boards decorate the walls.
                                                            
April, hair done, clothes casual but smart, wanders through
the hallway. A small sea of other students do the same.
                                                            
She consults a piece of paper labeled "Class Schedule".
Looks from that to the numbers on the classroom. No luck.
                                                            
                       SPEAKER (V.O.)
Welcome students to the new
semester. We hope you're as exited
as we are about a great new year.
                                                            
April, her eyes not focused on where she is going, bumps
into JOCK SENIOR, drops her paper.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Sorry, I wasn't paying attention
to where I was going.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
Hey, don't worry about it.
                                                            
He bends down and picks the piece of paper up, hands it back
to her.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Thanks.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
You look lost.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Is it that obvious?
                                                            
He nods. They share a small laugh.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
Freshman?
                                                            
She nods.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
What class are you looking for?
                                                            
                       APRIL
B-321. It's English 322.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
Pretty impressive for a Freshman.
                                                            

44.

                       APRIL
Thanks.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
This building can be kind of
confusing.
                                                            
Jock Senior points to a stairwell.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
Go one floor up and it will be the
third door on the left.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Thanks, I'm running super late.
                                                            
April turns and hurries to the stairwell.
                                                            
                       JOCK SENIOR
Hey, do you wanna hang out, go to
a party sometime?
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (smiles)
Sure, that'd be great.
                                                            
 
INT. ENGLISH CLASS - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
PAUL, 40ish, stands at the front of the class, piece of
paper in hand.
                                                            
A class of about 20 sits with similar papers in front of
them, all look forward.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Creative Writing, working in the
literary field is like science,
engineering, Baseball, or anything
else. It requires an innate talent
and a dedication to be successful.
                                                            
The door opens. Paul pauses. The entire class turns and
glares as April awkwardly shuffles in.
                                                            
                       APRIL
English 322?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Take a seat. I was just about to
talk about the importance of
punctuality.
                                                            

45.

April takes her seat.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It won't happen again.
                                                            
Paul's eyes meet hers. They exchange a smile.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Now, as I was saying...
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - DAY
                                                            
A hammer smashes into a corroded wooden stair, breaking it
off and sending it flying.
                                                            
Hunter raises the hammer, wipes sweat from his brow. Half
the stairs have been broken off.
                                                            
Hunter brings the hammer up, ready to take the next stair
out. The door opens, Jacob exits.
                                                            
                       JACOB
All the light bulbs are changed.
                                                            
Suddenly distracted, Hunter brings the hammer down,
connecting squarely with his thumb.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Awwwww! Fuck!
                                                            
Hunter jumps up in pain, his face turning red. He paces
around, squeezing his thumb tightly.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You alright?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (angry)
Why don't you stick your thumb
down and let me do that to you,
then you can ask me that question
again?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Jeez, sorry.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This really hurts -- can you check
if we have any ice?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Be right back.
                                                            

46.

Jacob walks back in the house. Hunter squirms, still holding
his thumb, writhing in pain.
                                                            
A few seconds later, Jacob comes back out, empty handed.
                                                            
                       JACOB
So the freezer no longer makes ice
cubes.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Great. We'll get a new one.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I can run to the store, get you
some Advil.
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob turn. A Prius pulls up the driveway.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You order pizza or something?
                                                            
Jacob shakes his head 'no'.
                                                            
The car pulls up next to Hunter's Jeep and parks. BARBARA
BATELLA, 50, wearing a sharp dress suit and a $1,000 smile,
caffeine seemingly flowing through her veins, exits the car.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
How can I help you?
                                                            
Barbara's eyes examine the house thoughtfully. She
approaches the steps.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
May I?
                                                            
Jacob offers her a hand, helps up the broken steps. She
shakes his hand.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Barbara Batella, real estate
agent.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Jacob Mathers.
                                                            
Barbara grabs Hunter's hands, shakes it. He recoils, thumb
still in pain.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Sorry, hammer accident.
                                                            

47.

Barbara reaches in her pocket and pulls out two business
cards. Hands one to each of them.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
      (talks fast)
Barbara Batella, best real estate
agent in Firestone. Well, I guess
there are only two of us, but I'm
still the best.
(laughs)
Anyway, a little birdie told me
you two were interested in listing
this wonderful cabin, so I said to
myself, Barbara, why don't you
head over and introduce yourself.
                                                            
                       JACOB
How did you know we were?
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Word travels fast in a small town.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
There's still a lot of work to do
before we're ready.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Of course, of course. Totally
understandable. Is there any
chance I can take a peek on the
inside?
                                                            
Jacob and Hunter exchange a look, shrug their shoulders.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I don't see why not.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Fantastic!
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Barbara opens the front door, moseying in, looking over the
room.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
It's a lot more spacious than it
looks from the outside.
                                                            
Jacob and Hunter follow her in.
                                                            

48.

                       HUNTER
Would you like us to give you the
tour?
                                                            
                       BARBARA
I can show myself around if that
would be copesetic?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Sure. Let us know if you have any
questions.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Will do.
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob retreat to the front porch, closing the
door behind them.
                                                            
Barbara pulls out a tape recorder, shuffles around.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Lakeside Avenue cabin, nice
location, needs some work. Kids
own it, could make some good
money.
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Barbara shuffles in. She regards the fridge and stove
sourly. Speaks into the recorder.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Appliances are horrendous.
                                                            
She makes her way to the window,nooks out.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Wonderful view, selling point to
boating enthusiasts.
                                                            
MAIN BEDROOM
                                                            
Barbara enters, paces around.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Nice size master bedroom.
                                                            
She bumps a table, sending a ceramic bowl crashing to the
floor, breaking it into pieces.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Fish sticks!
                                                            

49.

She kicks the pieces with her shoe under the bed, quickly
exits the room.
                                                            
BASEMENT
                                                            
The door to opens, light floods in, highlighting Barbara's
silhouette.
                                                            
She carefully goes down the stairs, pulls the chain. She
regards the dingy basement poorly. She puts the tape
recorder to her mouth.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Smells like something died down
here.
                                                            
She slowly makes her way down the stairs, reaches the
bottom. She shivers.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Heating, possible ventilation
problem in the basement.
                                                            
The light bulb SHATTERS. Barbara shrieks.
                                                            
MALE WHISPERS.
                                                            
FOOTSTEPS POUND THE STAIRS. The door opens, Barbara dashes
out.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Jacob sits on a railing, staring into space. Hunter paces,
looking for something.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What did you do with the hammer?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Huh?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
The hammer, I left it right here,
now it's gone.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I didn't touch your stupid hammer.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
So it just got up and walked away
on its own?
                                                            

50.

The door bursts open, Barbara barrels out.
                                                            
                       BARBARA
You two are complete assholes!
                                                            
She hops Dow the porch and heads straight for her car.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Excuse me?
                                                            
                       BARBARA
Don't either of you call me for
anything, you understand?
                                                            
Barbara get in her car, starts it, and speeds away.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jacob sits on one of the twin beds, stares out the window at
the still lake.
                                                            
                       HUNTER (O.S.)
Jacob! God dammit!
                                                            
Jacob gets off the bed and shuffles into the
                                                            
HALLWAY
                                                            
He looks down at Hunter, who storms around the living room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What did you do with the double A
batteries I bought?
                                                            
                       JACOB
What are you talking about?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I left a brand new pack of
batteries on the kitchen counter
and now they're gone.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (angry)
How come every little thing that
goes wrong, you blame on me?
                                                            
ZAP! All the lights shut off, silence. Pitch black.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You don't happen to know where the
breaker is?
                                                            
 

51.

INT. CABIN - BASEMENT - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Blackness. The door squeaks open.a dim candle light in
Hunter's hand illuminates him and Jacob.
                                                            
They shuffle down the creaky stairs. Jacob points to the
wall.
                                                            
                       JACOB
It's somewhere over there.
                                                            
They make their way toward the wall, reach the breaker.
Hunter opens the box.
                                                            
Behind them, a Shadow Figure appears. The brothers do not
notice, their breath now visible.
                                                            
Hunter opens the box, flips the switches back and forth.
Nothing.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Stupid old wiring.
                                                            
The Shadow Figure creeps towards them. Several tense
seconds.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's freezing down here.
                                                            
The Shadow Figure leans in, blows out the candle. Hunter and
Jacob shriek. Hunter drops the candle.
                                                            
The two bolt up the stairs and out of the basement.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob stand at the top of the stairs, huffing and
puffing.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Basement must have a draft, that's
all.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Right.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You weren't scared, were you?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Me? You're the one who dropped the
candle.
                                                            

52.

                       HUNTER
I'll call Atmos tomorrow, get this
figured out.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (challenging)
Wanna go back and get that candle?
                                                            
Hunter shakes his head and marches up the stairs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's been a bad day, let's just
get some sleep and start again
tomorrow.
                                                            
The main bedroom door slams.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jacob lies in bed asleep.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - MAIN BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter, asleep, tosses and turns, softly mumbles to himself.
                                                            
DREAM SEQUENCE
                                                            
 
INT. CAR - DAY
                                                            
HUNTER'S POV
                                                            
Like Hunter's last dream, everything is still fuzzy. But,
this time, things are starting to become clearer, more in
focus.
                                                            
The same CLASSIC ROCK SONG PLAYS. Hunter turns to his
passenger. It is April. She gives him a smile.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You look absolutely radiant.
                                                            
                       APRIL
You're going to make me blush. Are
we almost there?
                                                            
Hunter steers the car down a curvy mountain road.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Just a few more minutes.
                                                            

53.

                       APRIL
It's really pretty out here.
                                                            
                                         END DREAM SEQUENCE
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jacob lies in bed asleep.
                                                            
BANG! CRASH! GLASS BREAKS!
                                                            
Jacob pops up in bed, looks around confused, nervous.
                                                            
ANOTHER LOUD BANG!
                                                            
A cold sweat starts to form on Jacob's body. He gets up,
creeps to his door, tries to flip the light switch. Nothing.
                                                            
He grabs a small candle from his nightstand, lights it.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (whispers)
Shit!
                                                            
Jacob creeks the door open, peers into the hallway.
                                                            
CRASH!
                                                            
He looks over to the cracked open door of the main bedroom.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (loud whisper)
Hunter!
                                                            
No response. Jacob nervously shuffles into the
                                                            
HALLWAY
                                                            
and down the stairs. The only thing clearly visible is his
candlelit, scared face.
                                                            
BANG!
                                                            
Jacob trembles, but continues down. His feet reach the
bottom of the stairs.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
He shines the candle around, the room is trashed. Broken
furniture and glass litter everywhere the candle shines.
                                                            

54.

                       JACOB
Who's there?
                                                            
BANG!
                                                            
Jacob shines the light towards the noise. The Shadow Figure
bolts away, out of sight.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Who are you?!
                                                            
a figure approaches Jacob from behind, bumps into him. Jacob
runs, turns. Shines the candle.
                                                            
It's Hunter, sleep walking, destroying the living room as he
does so.
                                                            
Jacob grabs Hunter, shaking him violently.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hunter! Stop!
                                                            
Hunter's eyes shot open, breathes deeply. He throws Jacob to
the ground.
                                                            
                       JACOB
It's me, Jacob!
                                                            
hunter looks around, scared and confused.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's happening?
                                                            
Jacob gathers himself, stand, picks up the candle.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I was about to ask you the same
question.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Huh?
                                                            
Jacob shines the candle around so Hunter can survey the
damage.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You've been destroying the house
in your sleep!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I...I did this?
                                                            

55.

                       JACOB
Fuck, Hunter.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm sorry, I don't know...I,
don't.
                                                            
BUZZZZ!
                                                            
All the lights kick on. The electricity is back. Jacob and
Hunter look around in awe. Several tense seconds of silence.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What the fuck?
                                                            
                       JACOB
That wasn't weird or anything?
                                                            
Jacob blows out the candle, turns and heads towards the
stairs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, something's happening here.
                                                            
Jacob marches up the stairs.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What's happening is I'm going to
spend all day tomorrow cleaning
your mess up. At least you don't
have to call Atmos tomorrow.
                                                            
Jacob reaches his room, SLAMS the door.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - MORNING
                                                            
A dim morning sun rises above the horizon.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Jacob, sprawled out asleep, rolls over and yawns. He opens
his eyes and looks out on the lake.
                                                            
NOISES ECHO FROM DOWNSTAIRS. Jacob groans, slides out of
bed.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Great, what now?
                                                            
HALLWAY
                                                            

56.

Foot pound the stairs. Jacob reaches the
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Hunter sweeps broken glass into a dustpan. Most of last
night's damage has been cleaned. Several full trash bags
rest by the front door.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You get any sleep?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (jokes)
Probably safer if I'm awake, don't
you think?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I could've helped with this.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
We need to talk about what
happened.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Your sleep walking?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's more than that and you know
it. There's something here,
there's something in this house.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (angry)
All those years seeing Dr.
Schussed. All the pills. All the
ridicule.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (compassionate)
Jacob...
                                                            
                       JACOB
No! I done with this conversation!
                                                            
Jacob grabs keys, marches to the front door.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Where are you going?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Away from you.
                                                            
Jacob scowls at Hunter, slams the door as he exits.
                                                            

57.

A few seconds later, the Jeep starts. Tires kick dirt. The
Jeep leaves.
                                                            
Hunter grabs the trash bag he just threw the glass in, ties
it and tosses it next to the other bags.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This is just working out fucking
great.
                                                            
Hunter meanders into the
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
He opens the fridge, groans.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Great, nothing to eat and he has
the Jeep.
                                                            
He runs his hands across his face, looks towards the window.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
April sits on the bench, her back to the cabin.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Hunter stares at her, captivated. He heads toward the back
door.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
April sits, pen in hand, scribbles in a book, deeply
focused. A group of butterflies float around her.
                                                            
Hunter approaches.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Hello.
                                                            
April doesn't turn. He gets closer.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (friendly)
Hey.
                                                            
Hunter taps April on the shoulder. She jolts, turns.
Hunter's jaw drops. It's the girl from his dreams. He
struggles to speak.
                                                            

58.

                       HUNTER
S...Sorry, I didn't mean to
startle you.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (smiles)
Sometimes I get lost in my own
little world out here.
                                                            
Hunter gazes out on the lake, turns back to April.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I can see why. I'm Hunter.
                                                            
                       APRIL
April.
                                                            
Hunter takes a seat next to her. They look out on the water.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Beautiful, isn't it?
                                                            
Hunter looks right at April.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yeah, it is.
                                                            
Hunter notices the butterfly earrings on April.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Very pretty earrings.
                                                            
April laughs, snorts.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's so funny?
                                                            
                       APRIL
I'm just not used to having guys
notice my earrings, that's all.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
My Mom used to have a pair just
like them...
                                                            
Hunter reaches into his jacket pocket, where he put the
found earring before, can't find it.
                                                            
                       APRIL
So, what are you doing out here?
                                                            
Hunter points to the cabin.
                                                            

59.

                       HUNTER
My brother and I are fixing that
cabin up.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Oh, you mean Jacob?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (surprised)
You've met?
                                                            
                       APRIL
The other day.
                                                            
Hunter points to the notebook.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's that?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Just some writing I'm doing.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Am I disturbing you?
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (smirks)
Sometimes it's good to be
disturbed.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You wanna take a walk?
                                                            
 
EXT. WOODS BY THE HOUSE - LATER
                                                            
Hunter and April stroll through the sparse brush, both
giggle like old friends.
                                                            
They approach the lake and cabin.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I'm really glad you decided to
come talk to me today.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I hope we can do it again
sometime.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I'm looking forward to it.
                                                            

60.

They both stop, eyes connect. Hunter leans in to kiss April,
she closes her eyes.
                                                            
AN ENGINE ROARS. April opens her eyes, turns, just before
Hunter's lips can connect.
                                                            
Jacob, behind the wheel of the Jeep, pulls into the driveway
and parks.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob's home.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (disappointed)
Does that mean you have to go?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You want to come over and check it
out?
                                                            
                       APRIL
I don't want to be a bother.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Nonsense.
                                                            
Hunter grabs her hand and leads her towards the cabin. She
smiles, reluctantly, and follows his lead.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
The house is still, quiet. The back door opens, Hunter and
April enter. She curiously looks around.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
So, here it is.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Wow, I can tell you've done a lot.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's still a work in progress, but
we're getting there.
                                                            
They shuffle further in. April examines everything.
                                                            
                       APRIL
What are you going to do with the
place?
                                                            

61.

                       HUNTER
We're hoping to have it ready to
be leased or sold in a couple of
weeks.
                                                            
SMALL BEDROOM
                                                            
Jacob lies face down in bed, a sour look on his face.
                                                            
Hunter and April's voices echo up the stairs. Jacob pops up,
rubs his puffy red face.
                                                            
He gets out of bed, ambles to the door, cracks it open.
                                                            
                       HUNTER (O.S.)
We came up here with our parents
when we were children.
                                                            
                       APRIL (O.S.)
That sounds like fun.
                                                            
Jacob's face turns red with anger. He creeps out of his room
and shuffles down the stairs.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Hunter and April sit on the couch, turn as Jacob reaches the
bottom of the stairs.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Hi, Jacob.
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (to Hunter)
What are you doing?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I just met April, by the lake and
invited her...
                                                            
A ELECTRIC SPARK. The radio turns on by itself, PLAYING the
same rock song from Hunter's dream.
                                                            
April jumps up, looking around nervously.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
We've been having some electrical
problems lately.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Maybe I should go.
                                                            
April shuffles to the front door.
                                                            

62.

                       HUNTER
You don't have to go.
                                                            
A KNOCK at the door startles them all. April backs away from
the door. Hunter slowly makes his way to it.
                                                            
ANOTHER KNOCK. Hunter opens the door. Mark stands on the
other side, nervous, his eyes lowered.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mark?
                                                            
                       MARK
I just came to grab my cell phone.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Okay. You want to come in for a
minute?
                                                            
Mark, his eyes still down, shakes his head 'no'.
                                                            
Jacob grabs Mark's cell phone from the kitchen counter, runs
it over to him.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Here you go.
                                                            
Mark takes the phone and turns to leave.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mark, wait!
                                                            
Mark pauses, turns to look back inside the house. A look of
sheer terror, he bolts to his car. The engine starts and he
drives away.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
We're sorry about that, April...
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob turn back, but April is gone, the back door
wide open.
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - DAY
                                                            
Hunter's Jeep bends a curve on the road that leads into
town.
                                                            
INT. HUNTER'S JEEP
                                                            
Hunter drives in silence, with a concerned, yet determined
look.
                                                            
 

63.

EXT. FIRESTONE LIBRARY - PARKING LOT - DAY
                                                            
Hunter's Jeep pulls into the sparsely populated parking lot.
                                                            
 
INT. FIRESTONE LIBRARY - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Hunter enters the sleepy library. Very quaint, small
townish. A row of three ancient computers. A few rows of
dusty bookshelves.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Great.
                                                            
Hunter passes a 'Missing Persons' bulletin board with
several fliers thumb tacked next to each other.
                                                            
KARMI, an older librarian, pushes a cart down an isle, spots
Hunter.
                                                            
                       KARMI
Hi, can I help you?
                                                            
Hunter nervously shuffles over to her.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Yes, actually. I was looking for
anything you have on the
paranormal.
                                                            
Karmi's eyes light up, intrigued.
                                                            
                       KARMI
What specifically?
                                                            
Hunter shuffles awkwardly, uncomfortable at the question.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm looking for stuff on ghosts,
haunted houses, that sort of
thing.
                                                            
Karmi points to a row.
                                                            
                       KARMI
There are a few books on spirits
and the occult over there.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Thanks.
                                                            
                       KARMI
Can I take your hand?
                                                            

64.

                       HUNTER
      (eyebrows rise)
Uh...okay?
                                                            
Hunter sticks out his right hand, Karmi grabs it, closes her
eyes. She hums.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What are you doing?
                                                            
                       KARMI
Shhhh.
                                                            
A few seconds of uncomfortable silence for Hunter.
                                                            
                       KARMI
You have the gift of sight, but
there is another closer to you,
where it is really strong.
                                                            
Hunter yanks his hand away. Karmi opens her eyes.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (laughs)
I'm sorry, but I think the whole
psychic thing is nonsense.
                                                            
                       KARMI
      (hurt)
I see. I was just trying to help.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'll just be checking out the
books now.
                                                            
                       KARMI
If you need any help, just let me
know.
                                                            
Karmi ambles away. Hunter heads to the bookshelf.
                                                            
LATER
                                                            
Hunter sits alone at a table, reading "How to Know if You're
Experiencing a Haunting".
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (reads; mumbles)
When a spirit chooses to stay it
is usually for one of two reasons
-- either they are afraid to move
towards the light because of
something terrible they have done
or they have business they must
            (MORE)

65.

                       HUNTER (cont'd)
see finished before they leave.
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - EVENING
                                                            
Hunter's Jeep cruises along the curvy road.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DRIVEWAY - EVENING
                                                            
Hunter pulls up his Jeep and parks. He gets out and heads to
the front door.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
The front door opens, Hunter strides in.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
Where did you go?
                                                            
Hunter closes the door, turns. Jacob stands in the living
room, arms crossed, clearly waiting.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I had to get out for a while.
                                                            
                       JACOB
We need to talk.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
About?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I don't want to sell this place.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What are you talking about? After
all the work we've put in.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I want to live here, in the cabin.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I don't think that's such a great
idea.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I like it out here. I don't want
to be anywhere else.
                                                            

66.

                       HUNTER
You'll be so far from me, Dr.
Schuster. What will you do for
money?
                                                            
                       JACOB
There's the General Store in
town--
                                                            
                       HUNTER
--For Christ's sake, you don't
even have a car!
                                                            
                       JACOB
      (screams)
Then I'll get one!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This place won't be good for you,
don't you see that?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Who made you the expert on what's
good for me?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mom and Dad, when they died,
that's who.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Please, we'll figure something
out.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
This cabin is half mine too, and I
say no.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Well, you can't sell it without
me!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, stop acting like a child.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Fuck you, Hunter!
                                                            
Jacob marches up the stairs.
                                                            
                       JACOB
By the way, I saw her first.
                                                            

67.

                       HUNTER
Is that what this is all about, a
girl?
                                                            
Jacob continues up the stairs.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob...
                                                            
Jacob slams his bedroom door.
                                                            
 
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
                                                            
April sits in the middle of the class, writing in a
notebook.
                                                            
Filled with 20 kids. DITZY BLONDE and OBNOXIOUS BRUNETTE sit
on opposite sides of April. They whisper back and forth.
                                                            
                       DITZY BLONDE
Jay's having a kegger this
weekend.
                                                            
                       OBNOXIOUS BRUNETTE
He's so hot, I'd make babies with
him.
                                                            
April lets out a tiny grunt, does her best to hide her
annoyance.
                                                            
Paul gets up from his desk, approaches the front.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I have everyone's short stories
graded and to put it bluntly they
were lacking. Spell check only
takes a minute and when everyone
sees their grades, you'll
understand that it's a minute well
spent.
                                                            
Paul glances at the clock, sees that it is approaching the
hour.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Next week I will be covering
subtext -- how to talk about a
subject without ever actually
talking about it. Okay, that's it
for today.
                                                            

68.

The class grabs their bags and bolts for the door, murmuring
as they go.
                                                            
April hangs behind, waits for everyone to leave. Paul
regards her.
                                                            
                       PAUL
What can I do for you Miss
Kilwell?
                                                            
                       APRIL
I just wanted to say how much I
like your class.
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (smiles)
That's always a teacher's favorite
thing to hear.
                                                            
                       APRIL
My dream is to be a writer
someday.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Well, you write, don't you?
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (laughs)
Well, yes.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Then you already are.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I meant professionally, silly.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I think you're well on your way --
you're easily the best writer in
the class.
                                                            
April blushes.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Seriously?
                                                            
                       PAUL
What do you want to write?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Crime, drama, thrillers. Those are
my favorite. A Time to Kill is my
favorite book.
                                                            

69.

                       PAUL
Mine too.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (excited)
Really?
                                                            
Paul nods.
                                                            
                       PAUL
You still have a lot to learn to
get to the professional level.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I know, I wish your class were
longer. I just want to immerse
myself.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Maybe I could give you some
pointers outside of class.
(awkward pause)
If you'd like.
                                                            
                       APRIL
That'd be great! When can you do
it?
                                                            
                       PAUL
I'm all booked up this week till
Saturday.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Saturday would be fine for me.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I know a nice little coffee shop.
                                                            
 
INT. RALPH'S ELECTRONICS - DAY
                                                            
A handful of overpriced HD televisions displayed up front.
Hunter enters, gazes around.
                                                            
RALPH,50, more of a mountain man than electronic salesman,
eagerly approaches his potential customer.
                                                            
                       RALPH
Welcome to Ralph's Electronics,
I've got a great deal on iPads
this week.
                                                            

70.

                       HUNTER
No, thanks, I had something
specific I was looking for.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Hunter enters, carrying a large bag from Ralph's. He looks
around, no Jacob.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob? You here?
                                                            
No answer. Hunter makes his way to the couch, opens the bag.
he pulls out two high tech digital cameras. He sets them on
the table.
                                                            
He looks around the room.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm going to figure out who you
are and what you're doing here.
                                                            
Hunter stands and moseys into the
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
His eyes meet the window, continues towards it.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
Jacob, slumped, sits on the bench by himself.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Hunter stares at his brother with compassion.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
We'll figure this out, brother.
                                                            
He walks back to the
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
and picks up one of the cameras, opens the box.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Jacob sits on the bench, overlooks the water. His face puffy
and red from a fresh cry.
                                                            

71.

April approaches from the distance. Jacob notices, quickly
cleans his face off.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Did you want to be alone?
                                                            
Jacob pauses. April turns to leave.
                                                            
                       JACOB
No, no, it's okay. I just have a
lot on my mind right now. This
seemed like a good place to think.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's as good a place as any.
                                                            
April takes a seat next to him.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I just feel so alone in this world
sometimes.
                                                            
She places a hand on his knee.
                                                            
                       APRIL
You're not.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I don't want to sell the cabin. I
want to live here.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Why?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Get away from all the bullshit.
There's nothing out there for me.
                                                            
                       APRIL
There's more than that.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Maybe I'd get to see more of you.
                                                            
April smiles awkwardly, not sure what to say.
                                                            
Jacob leans in, before she can react, plants a kiss on her
lips.
                                                            
 

72.

INT. CABIN - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter watches the kiss between Jacob and April. He is not
pleased.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVIN ROOM - DAY
                                                            
A hammer bangs a nail into the wall. One, two, three times.
                                                            
Hunter steps back, looks satisfied. He grabs a glossy deer
painting and hangs it.
                                                            
The living room interior appears completely transformed.
Jacob enters from the back door.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Seriously, deer?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Since when did you become the home
decor critic?
                                                            
Jacob notices the camera, points to it.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What are you doing?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Figuring out what's going on here.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What's going on here is you're
being an asshole.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Please, let's not do this again.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You're not my dad, you know?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (condescending)
Yes, you're a big boy Jacob.
                                                            
                       JACOB
By the way, I saw her first, so
just back off of her.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You mean April?
                                                            

73.

                       JACOB
You like her, I now you do. Just
back off.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Don't be stupid.
                                                            
Jacob laughs.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You don't even know.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, this place isn't good for
you. I was thinking...
                                                            
                       JACOB
What were you thinking?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Maybe you can go back home, let me
finish this by myself.
                                                            
Jacob marches to the table, grabs the Jeep keys.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Where are you going?
                                                            
Jacob doesn't respond. He slams the front door as he exits.
                                                            
The Jeep STARTS,grinds dirt as it pulls out of the driveway.
                                                            
Hunter sighs, goes to the couch and plops down. He covers
his face with his hands, the stress palpable.
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Hunter...Go.
                                                            
Hunter's head pops up, looks around.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Maybe I'm just losing my mind.
                                                            
KNOCK AT THE DOOR
                                                            
Hunter, curious, gets up and makes his way to the door. He
swings it open.
                                                            
April shyly stands on the other side of the door. Hunter
reacts surprised.
                                                            

74.

                       HUNTER
If you're looking for Jacob, you
just missed him.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Actually, I came to see you.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Really?
                                                            
April nods.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You want to come in?
                                                            
April enters. Hunter shuts the door behind her.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's going on?
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's your brother...
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I know, I saw you two earlier. He
really likes you.
                                                            
                       APRIL
There's someone else and I don't
know how to tell him.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
That will devastate him.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I know, I don't want to hurt him.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Why didn't you say anything
before?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Because...that person's you.
                                                            
Hunter's jaw drops. April offers him a faint smile.
                                                            
                       APRIL
You're sweet, kind, intelligent,
handsome. You're everything I
could ever want.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I don't know what to say.
                                                            

75.

                       APRIL
Do you feel the same about me?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I have dreamt about you every
night since I've been here. I
think about you constantly.
                                                            
April smiles. Their eyes lock. Hunter leans in and they kiss
passionately.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - MAIN BEDROOM - EVENING
                                                            
Hunter and April lie under the covers, she gently caresses
his chest. She has a sad look. Hunter notices.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's wrong?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Nothing...
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Come on, April, tell me.
                                                            
                       APRIL
You are going to get done
renovating, sell this place and I
will never see you again.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
April...
                                                            
                       APRIL
Well, you are, aren't you?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I don't know. My head is just so
cloudy right now.
                                                            
The front door opens O.S. Footsteps enter the cabin. Hunter
and April nervously pop up.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (whispers)
Jacob's back.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I have to go.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
Hunter? Where are you?
                                                            

76.

Footsteps come up the stairs.
                                                            
Hunter hops out of bed and quickly puts on his jeans.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (to April)
Just stay here.
                                                            
Hunter rushes to the door just as Jacob turns the handle
open. Hunter slams it shut.
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
What the hell?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What do you need?
                                                            
                       JACOB (O.S.)
You have my cell phone charger in
there.
                                                            
Hunter opens the door, slides out, closing it behind him.
                                                            
HALLWAY
                                                            
Jacob looks over his brother suspiciously.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What's your problem?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Nothing.
                                                            
Jacob slides past his brother. Opens the door. Hunter can't
stop him in time.
                                                            
                       JACOB
My phone's about to die.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
It's not what it...
                                                            
MAIN BEDROOM
                                                            
April is gone. The window slightly cracked open. Jacob grabs
his charger. Hunter looks around in disbelief.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Huh?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Nothing.
                                                            

77.

                       JACOB
I'll be in my room listening to
music.
                                                            
Jacob walks past him, his bedroom door slams.
                                                            
Hunter curiously looks around the bedroom. He approaches the
window, stares into the cold, dark night. April is no where
to be seen.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter, on his laptop, hooks up one of the cameras to it,
downloads.
                                                            
Jacob shuffles down the stairs, looks disapprovingly at
Hunter.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What?
                                                            
                       JACOB
Just don't know why you're wasting
your time.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Please, let's not start this
again.
                                                            
                       JACOB
And when you find whatever you're
looking for, then what?
                                                            
Hunter is about to answer but pauses, not sure of the
answer.
                                                            
Hunter's CELL PHONE RINGS. He answers.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Mark?
(pause)
Wait, what happened?
(pause)
How far?
(shakes his head)
Alright, we'll be right over.
                                                            
Hunter hangs up. Jacob gives him a quizzical gaze.
                                                            

78.

                       HUNTER
Mark had an accident a few miles
down the canyon. He's stuck in a
ditch.
                                                            
                       JACOB
What an idiot.
                                                            
Hunter grabs his jacket, puts it on. He grabs his keys.
Jacob crosses his arms.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
He needs our help.
                                                            
                       JACOB
No way.
                                                            
Hunter marches to the front door, opens it.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Fine, leave me to do it by myself.
                                                            
Jacob relents.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I guess I could use the laugh.
                                                            
 
EXT. WOODS BY THE CABIN - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter and Jacob exits the house and head towards the Jeep.
They talk, but it is inaudible from this distance.
                                                            
                       MARK (O.S.)
Please give me your protection
from all evil, father.
                                                            
Mark, crouching down behind some brush, grips a cross
necklace tightly.
                                                            
He watches the two brothers get in the Jeep. It starts, the
lights turn on and it peels away.
                                                            
Mark stands, picks up a red gas can. He stares at it
maniacally. He rushes towards the house.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Mark slowly makes his way up the stairs, sizing up the
house. He trembles as he gets closer.
                                                            

79.

His hand reaches for the doorknob. A tense moment. The door
slowly opens on its own.
                                                            
Mark recoils, closes his eyes, mumbles a quick prayer. Gains
his courage.
                                                            
                       MARK
The evil dies tonight.
                                                            
Mark rushes in. The door slams behind him.
                                                            
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Mark opens the gas can, rushes around pouring the liquid,
dousing the entire first floor.
                                                            
The house GROANS. Trembling, Mark pulls a box of matches
from his pocket.
                                                            
                       MARK
Go back to hell.
                                                            
Mark strikes a match, it is quickly blown out. Mark strikes
another, it too is blown out.
                                                            
                       MARK
      (panicked)
No...no...no...
                                                            
One after another, each match Mark lights is extinguished.
                                                            
The electricity shuts off. Blackness. Mark screams.
                                                            
Full on shaking, Mark strikes one last match. A Dark Shadow
Figure stands directly behind him, blows it out.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Darkness. The door opens. Jacob and Hunter enter, flick the
light switch on. Hunter holds a phone to his ear, puts it
down.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Keeps going to voicemail.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I knew he was fucking with us.
                                                            
Hunter sniffs the air. Then Jacob does too.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What is that?
                                                            

80.

                       JACOB
Smells like gas.
                                                            
They make their way further in.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Did you leave the oven on?
                                                            
Jacob picks up the gas can. The two brothers stare at it
curiously.
                                                            
LIGHT SOBS. Hunter and Jacob look around.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Who's there?
                                                            
The SOBS continue. Jacob and Hunter make their way towards a
closet, swing it open.
                                                            
IN THE CLOSET
                                                            
Mark cowers in the fetal position, tears stream down his
face.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
The moon shines bright into the darkened room. Jacob lies in
bed, headphones blare heavy metal.
                                                            
He removes the headphones and gets up, revealing bloodshot
eyes.
                                                            
He heads to the door.
                                                            
HALLWAY
                                                            
Jacob peeks into the main bedroom. Hunter snores.
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Jacob opens the fridge grabs a carton of milk, chugs it.
                                                            
A LOUD CREAK
                                                            
Jacob slowly lowers the milk, glances around. He puts the
milk back in the fridge, closes it.
                                                            
Behind Jacob, the basement door slowly swings open. Jacob
turns. He stares into the blackness.
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Jacob.
                                                            

81.

                       JACOB
Who are you? Why don't you show
yourself to me?
                                                            
                       MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Come.
                                                            
The door swings further open, welcoming Jacob. He walks
towards it, as if in a trance.
                                                            
His feet reach the steps. The door SLAMS SHUT behind him.
                                                            
 
INT. FANCY COFFEE SHOP - MORNING
                                                            
Bustling with yuppie, well decaffeinated, young adults. A
trendy place to be.
                                                            
The door opens. A nervously happy April, backpack in hand,
enters. Her eyes search around as she ambles through the
crowd.
                                                            
Her eyes find what they were searching for. A slight smile
cracks her face.
                                                            
Paul, in a back booth, waves her over. She shuffles towards
him and takes a seat.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Hey.
                                                            
                       PAUL
You find the place okay?
                                                            
April nods.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I ordered us a couple lattes.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Oh, you're amazing!
                                                            
                       PAUL
That's a great compliment coming
from a future published writer.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (blushes)
Oh, stop.
                                                            
                       PAUL
No, I really mean it.
                                                            

82.

An awkward exchange of smiles. April reaches in her book bag
and pulls out a notebook.
                                                            
                       APRIL
So, what are we working on first?
                                                            
He is about to answer...
                                                            
                       BARISTA (O.S.)
Two mocha lattes for Paul.
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (to April)
Hold that thought.
                                                            
Paul gets up and heads to the counter.
                                                            
LATER
                                                            
April takes copious notes, hangs on Paul's every word. Two
long empty latte cups rest on the table.
                                                            
                       APRIL
So, the conflict put in front of
the protagonist should directly
challenge his flaw, and thus,
overcoming it, completes his arc.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I couldn't have said it better
myself.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's all so complicated.
                                                            
                       PAUL
It takes years to master. But I
think you're smart enough to do
it.
                                                            
April sighs.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Can I ask you a personal question?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Shoot.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Do you have a wife, girlfriend?
                                                            
Paul is slightly taken aback by the question.
                                                            

83.

                       PAUL
No, why do you ask?
                                                            
                       APRIL
It such a lovely Saturday and I
just wanted to make sure I wasn't
keep you from anyone.
                                                            
                       PAUL
You're not.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Why is someone as amazing as you
single?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Guess I'm just waiting for the
right person.
                                                            
Paul's attention to April is interrupted.
                                                            
Ditzy Blonde and Annoying Brunette, who we met earlier in
Paul's class wait in line.
                                                            
April notices too.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Do you want to leave?
                                                            
                       PAUL
I just don't want people to get
the wrong idea.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I understand.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Are you free for a few more hours?
                                                            
                       APRIL
Yeah, sure.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Great, I know the perfect place we
can go.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - MAIN BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
A full moon shines through the curtain drawn window. Hunter,
asleep, tosses and turns in bed.
                                                            

84.

                       HUNTER
      (mumbles)
We're almost there.
                                                            
Hunter, eyes still closed, stands and wanders toward his
door.
                                                            
 
INT. CAR - DAY
                                                            
Paul drives, April rides shotgun.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's further out then I expected.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Don't worry, I will have you home
at a decent hour.
                                                            
They exchange a smile.
                                                            
                       PAUL
We're close now.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DRIVEWAY - DAY
                                                            
Paul's BMW pulls into the driveway and parks. Paul and April
get out, walk to the front door.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I've never been out to a cabin
like this.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Perfect place for a writer to get
away.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
The two enter, Paul shuts the door behind them. Paul points
to the couch.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Have a seat.
                                                            
April sits on the couch, pulls a notebook from her backpack.
Paul makes his way into the
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            

85.

                       APRIL (O.S.)
I can't tell you how much I
appreciate everything. I've
learned so much today.
                                                            
Paul pulls out a bottle of wine and two glasses. He opens
the bottle and pours the glasses full.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Don't mention it, really. I've
gotten just as much out of it as
you have.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Paul walks back in and hands one of the glasses to April,
who reluctantly accepts.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Are you sure?
                                                            
Paul clings his glass with hers.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Think of it as motivation for
being a professional writer.
                                                            
They both take large drinks of their glass.
                                                            
LATER
                                                            
Paul and April on the couch, April takes notes. Their wine
glasses empty.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I never really noticed three act
structure till you broke it down
to me.
                                                            
Paul holds up the near empty bottle of wine.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Another?
                                                            
April puts her hand up, shakes her head 'no'.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Three is enough for me.
                                                            
April peeks out the window, sees the sun heading for the
horizon.
                                                            

86.

                       APRIL
I should probably be getting back
soon.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I have a confession, April.
                                                            
                       APRIL
What's that?
                                                            
                       PAUL
I think I'm becoming infatuated
with you.
                                                            
April has a nervous smile, both happy and unsure.
                                                            
                       PAUL
And I think you feel the same way
about me.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Yeah, yeah I do.
                                                            
Paul puts the wine glass down, leans in and kisses April.
She hesitates before giving in.
                                                            
The two clumsily fumble to get their clothes off in between
kisses. Paul thrusts. April moans. Something catches her
eye.
                                                            
Above the fireplace, a picture of Paul, Darlene, Hunter(5)
and Jacob(4) standing by the bench just off the lake.
                                                            
April's face turns to horror. She shoves her hand into
Paul's chest, stopping him.
                                                            
                       PAUL
What is it?
                                                            
                       APRIL
You are! This is! You lied to me!
                                                            
April points to the picture. Paul sees, gets off of her. He
paces.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I didn't want to tell you because
I thought...I don't know.
                                                            
Paul looks out the kitchen window. A family of four, fishes
by the lake.
                                                            

87.

                       APRIL
      (cries)
I thought I was falling in love
with you!
                                                            
April rushes to the door, Paul goes after her. He grabs her
shirt, ripping it.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (screams)
Let go of me!
                                                            
He grabs her arms, pinning her.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Shhh. You need to calm down,
people will hear you.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I don't care, now let go of me!
                                                            
April goes for the door, Paul takes her to the ground, her
butterfly earring falls under the chair. He covers her
mouth. Muffled screams.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I'm not going to hurt you!
                                                            
April claws at his face. Several tense moments. April goes
limp, her eyes droop.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Oh, God.
                                                            
Paul gets off April, looks over her dead body in disbelief.
                                                            
                       PAUL
What have I done?
                                                            
He paces up the stairs to the
                                                            
BATHROOM
                                                            
Looks in the mirror. He turns water on and splashes his
face.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - NIGHT
                                                            
Quiet and moonless. Paul drags April's body, covered in a
blue tarp to a row boat. Two cinder blocks already inside.
                                                            
ON THE LAKE
                                                            

88.

Paul rows the boat to the center of the lake. The tarp and
cinder blocks next to him.
                                                            
He stops, ties rope to the tarp and cinder block. With all
his strength, tosses April overboard.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter, illuminated by the moon, eyes closed, suddenly
wakes, startled.
                                                            
The realization of the dreams, the sleepwalking, everything
slowly sinking in.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DRIVEWAY - MORNING
                                                            
The sun inches over the horizon on a cloudy day.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
                                                            
Hunter, dressed for his day, bloodshot and tired eyes,
approaches the small bedroom.
                                                            
KNOCKS ON THE DOOR
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm heading out to run some
errands, I won't be back till
tonight.
                                                            
No answer. Hunter waits a moment. KNOCKS AGAIN.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob?
                                                            
Hunter opens the bedroom door. No Jacob.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Hunter looks around, searching. Light from under the
basement door catches his eye.
                                                            
BASEMENT
                                                            
Hunter heads down the steps.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob?
                                                            

89.

Hunter reaches the bottom of the steps. Jacob sits on the
floor, boxes of papers, photos and other random trinkets
scattered about.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (concerned)
You're wearing the same clothes as
yesterday -- have you been down
here all night?
                                                            
                       JACOB
I found a few boxes of old stuff.
                                                            
Jacob pulls an old framed picture of the family, the same
one April saw.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I remember that day you eating so
much ice cream you puked.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I have errands to run, I'm going
to be out most of the day.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Don't stay out too late, big
storm's coming. Could be flash
floods.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I won't.
                                                            
Hunter turns and marches up the stairs.
                                                            
 
EXT. WOODS BY THE CABIN - DAY
                                                            
A light rain drizzles down.
                                                            
Jacob shuffles around, searching, spots something. He bends
down and picks up a single Daisy.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - DAY
                                                            
April sits on the bench, pen scribbling in her notebook.
Jacob approaches from behind, April turns.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Hi, Jacob.
                                                            
Jacob extends the Daisy, hands it to April.
                                                            

90.

                       JACOB
For you.
                                                            
                       APRIL
It's very lovely.
                                                            
Jacob takes a seat next to April.
                                                            
                       JACOB
And so are you.
                                                            
April blushes, unsure of what to say.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I like you more than any girl I
have ever met.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Jacob...
                                                            
                       JACOB
I'm going to move here, we can be
together every day. I know how
lonely you are.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Jacob, I can't.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Why?
                                                            
                       APRIL
My heart belongs to someone else.
                                                            
                       JACOB
But my heart belongs to you!
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (tears eyed)
I'm sorry, I can't be that person
for you.
                                                            
Jacob snatches the Daisy from April and crumbles it. He
stands and marches back to the house.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I didn't mean to hurt you!
                                                            
Jacob reaches the cabin, slams the door as he enters.
                                                            
 

91.

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - DAY
                                                            
Hunter's Jeep maneuvers the curvy road.
                                                            
 
EXT. FIRESTONE LIBRARY PARKING LOT - DAY
                                                            
Hunter's Jeep pulls into the near empty lot and parks.
                                                            
 
EXT. FIRESTONE LIBRARY - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Hunter enters, his eyes searching. Karmi assorts books at
the other end of the library. Hunter rushes over to her. She
turns.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I'm ready. I'm ready to listen.
                                                            
                       KARMI
There's a lot I have to do...
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (begs)
Please.
                                                            
                       KARMI
Come with me.
                                                            
 
INT. SMALL OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Cramped, scattered with boxes, files and old books. A small
table and two chairs. Hunter sits, Karmi opposite him.
                                                            
                       KARMI
Give me your hands.
                                                            
Hunter sticks his hands out. Karmi grabs them and closes her
eyes.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
How does this work?
                                                            
                       KARMI
Shhhh.
                                                            
Hunter sighs, closes his eyes.
                                                            
 

92.

INT. LIBRARY - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Hunter rushes out of the small office and to the small
office towards the front door. He pauses in his tracks.
                                                            
The 'Missing Person's' board. Hunter reaches, pulls a piece
of paper off. He stares in horror.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN BASEMENT - DAY
                                                            
Heavy rain drops pound the cabin. Jacob sits on the floor,
surrounded by all the boxes, crying.
                                                            
The basement door swings open. Jacob glances up at it. He
stands and stomps up the stairs.
                                                            
LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Jacob enters from the basement, looks around.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Why do you want me up here?
                                                            
Jacob paces around. His eyes land on a blinking red light
from the camera, set up to capture the entire room.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - MAIN BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
Jacob sits in front of the computer, camera hooked in. It
downloads.
                                                            
COMPUTER SCREEN
                                                            
A perfect shot of the living room in green night vision. The
image fast forwards.
                                                            
The video stops at the end of Hunter and his argument. Jacob
leaves the house.
                                                            
KNOCK AT THE DOOR
                                                            
Hunter opens the door, April enters.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Jacob watches the scene in anger. The green glow of the
computer screen reflects off his face, a tear rolls down his
cheek.
                                                            
 

93.

INT. UNIVERSITY STAFF BUILDING - EVENING
                                                            
Rain pours heavy, seen through the windows.
                                                            
Hunter, his clothes soaked from the rain, marches down a
hall. He reaches a pebbled glass door. It reads:"Dean Mary
Ambrose".
                                                            
Hunter KNOCKS on the door.
                                                            
                       DEAN AMBROSE (O.S.)
You may enter.
                                                            
INT. DEAN AMBROSE'S OFFICE
                                                            
The door opens, Hunter enters. DEAN AMBROSE sits at her
desk.
                                                            
                       DEAN AMBROSE
How can I assist you?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
My name is Hunter Mathers, I'm
Paul Mathers' son.
                                                            
                       DEAN AMBROSE
Yes, of course, we met at the
funeral.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I had a favor to ask.
                                                            
 
INT. STORAGE ROOM - EVENING
                                                            
Hunter sits at a table, sifts through several boxes of files
and paperwork.
                                                            
A class roster in front of him. He spots the name 'April
Kilwell'.
                                                            
 
EXT. PSYCHE WARD - EVENING
                                                            
Rain hammers asphalt. Hunter's Jeep pulls in the packed lot.
                                                            
 
INT. PSYCHE WARD - VISITING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
                                                            
A cold, steel room. Mark, wearing inpatient clothes, sits on
one side of the table, Hunter on the other.
                                                            

94.

                       MARK
I, I can't do this. Dr. Greeley
told me I have acute
schizophrenia, that I'm getting
better.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What happened to you is real, it's
happening to us.
                                                            
Mark groans, buries his face in his hands.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I need to know what happened, the
first day at that cabin.
                                                            
FLASHBACK
                                                            
The flashback is stilted and choppy, like that of a memory.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Hunter, Jacob, and Mark scrub the floor. Hunter pushes the
chair out of the way, finds the yellow butterfly ear ring.
                                                            
                       MARK
You guys seen my cell phone?
                                                            
INT. MAIN BEDROOM
                                                            
Mark shuffles in, picks up his cell phone. He wanders
towards the window, looks out.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            
Water ripples in the middle of the lake. The ripples grow
larger.
                                                            
A head, neck and shoulders slowly rise out, decayed
severely. The rest of the body follows. It is April. She
walks on water towards the shore.
                                                            
She looks towards the window, her eyes connect with Mark's.
                                                            
                                         END FLASHBACK
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Mark weeps in his hands. Hunter, jaw dropped, pulls out the
'Missing Person' flyer of April, shoves it in Mark's face.
                                                            

95.

                       HUNTER
Is this her?
                                                            
Mark shuns the paper, turns away. Hunter just got his
answer.
                                                            
                       MARK
Get as far away from that place as
you can.
                                                            
 
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - NIGHT
                                                            
Rain comes down in a flurry. The sides of the road are
flooded. Hunter's Jeep barrels down the road, splashing
water.
                                                            
INT. HUNTER'S JEEP
                                                            
The windshield wipers struggle to clear the barrage of
water, making visibility bad.
                                                            
                       RADIO (V.O)
Massive flooding has been reported
in the cities of Cripple Creek,
Estes Park, Firestone, North
Park...
                                                            
Hunter, a flood of emotions plastered to his face, shuts the
radios off. He presses a cell phone to his ear.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Dammit, Jacob, pick up!
                                                            
He puts the cell phone back in his pocket. Hunter leans
forward, struggling to see the road through the heavy rain.
                                                            
A figure appears in the middle of the road. It's Paul,
waiving at Hunter to stop.
                                                            
Hunter, jaw dropped, swerves to miss him. The Jeep crashes
violently into the ditch.
                                                            
 
INT. JACOB'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jacob sits cross legged on the floor, teary eyed. He runs a
knife across his arm, slashes it. Jacob raises his arm,
watches the blood drip.
                                                            
 

96.

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - NIGHT
                                                            
The Jeep rests in the ditch, smoke billows from the engine.
                                                            
INT. HUNTER'S JEEP
                                                            
Hunter, dazed, blood trickles from his forehead. The air bag
exploded in front of him.
                                                            
Hunter comes too, struggles to exit the Jeep.
                                                            
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD
                                                            
Hunter emerges from the Jeep, rain immediately soaking him.
He looks around in anger.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
I hate you Dad! I fucking hate
you! Go to the light and get what
you deserve!
                                                            
Hunter turns, Paul stands on the other end of the road, a
sad, somber look.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
      (yells)
You're a murderer! Leave us alone!
                                                            
Paul turns his back, disappears into the pouring rain.
Vanished.
                                                            
Hunter reaches in his pocket, pulls out his cell phone,
dials.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - SMALL BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jacob lies on the floor, his arm covered in blood.
                                                            
                       JACOB
You're not here anymore. Where did
you go, Dad?
                                                            
CELL PHONE RINGS. Jacob picks it up, looks at the Caller
I.D. "Hunter".
                                                            
Jacob screams. He throws the phone against the wall,
shattering it to pieces.
                                                            
 

97.

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - NIGHT
                                                            
Hunter, walking along the flooding road, looks down at his
phone. It beeps, dead.
                                                            
The phone slips out of his hand, is carried away by the
water.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Dammit!
                                                            
Hunter struggles to make him down the road.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN - DRIVEWAY - NIGHT
                                                            
The WIND HOWLS.
                                                            
Hunter, soaked, battered and exhausted stumbles towards the
porch.
                                                            
He labors, clearly in pain, makes his was to the front door,
opens it.
                                                            
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Hunter enters.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Jacob, I'm--
                                                            
Jacob's fist slams into Hunter's face. Blackness.
                                                            
Light emerges through the blinks of slowly opening eyes.
                                                            
Hunter slowly comes to. Jacob slams his fist into Hunter's
face again.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What the fuck?
                                                            
Hunter wrestles Jacob, gets some distance from him and
stands. He wipes blood from his face.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Why'd you do it? Why did you take
her from me?
                                                            
The realization sinks in on Hunter.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
She's not what you think!
                                                            

98.

                       JACOB
      (screams)
I don't care if she's dead!
                                                            
Hunter's jaw drops, shocked.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You knew?
                                                            
                       JACOB
From the moment I layed eyes on
her.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
She was one of dad's students, he
murdered her, threw her body in
the lake. We have to go to the
police!
                                                            
                       JACOB
No!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
What's wrong with you?
                                                            
                       JACOB
You'll ruin our father's name.
They'll drag the lake, find her
body, and she'll be gone forever!
                                                            
                       HUNTER
But I thought you--
                                                            
                       JACOB
I'm going to win her back, and we
are going to live in this house. I
wont let you take that away from
me.
                                                            
Hunter shoves his way past Jacob.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Where are you going?
                                                            
                       HUNTER
To get the land line, I'm calling
the police.
                                                            
Hunter makes his way up the stairs. Jacob charges him,
shoves him.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
Get off me!
                                                            

99.

Hunter connects with two hard punches to Jacob's face,
staggering him. Hunter reaches the top of the stairs.
                                                            
Jacob trips him at the top, gets on top of him. They roll
back and forth, fighting for control.
                                                            
April appears at the end of the hallway. Hunter's eyes
connect with hers.
                                                            
                       HUNTER
You're not real.
                                                            
                       APRIL
      (sadly)
Yes, I am.
                                                            
Hunter stands. Jacob shoves him. Hunter goes tumbling
violently down the stairs. Comes to a still rest at the
bottom.
                                                            
April screams. Jacob turns and sees her.
                                                            
                       APRIL
No!
                                                            
April disappears. Jacob, trembling, looks down in horror.
                                                            
                       JACOB
Hunter?
                                                            
Hunter lies still, his eyes glossed over. Jacob rushes down
to him, checks him. Nothing.
                                                            
Once the tears start, the flow like a flood from Jacob.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I didn't mean to, Hunter. I didn't
mean it!
                                                            
Jacob looks around in frustration. A wave of nausea
overcomes him.
                                                            
 
EXT. BY THE LAKE - NIGHT
                                                            
The heavy rain continues down at a steady pace. Lights from
the cabin in the background.
                                                            
Jacob drags Hunter's body, covered in a blue tarp, towards
the lake. He struggles.
                                                            
He reaches the small pier with the row boat attached.
                                                            

100.

                       APRIL (O.S.)
Put him here.
                                                            
Jacob turns, April stands solemnly at the edge of the lake.
                                                            
                       APRIL
I'll take care of him.
                                                            
                       JACOB
I didn't mean for this to happen.
                                                            
                       APRIL
Just leave him and go.
                                                            
Jacob drags Hunter into the water. His body sinks in, floats
toward the deep middle as it descends.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - MORNING
                                                            
Jacob, catatonic, sits wit his legs cradled in his arms,
rocks back and forth.
                                                            
He picks up a picture, the one of the family by the lake.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
POLICE OFFICER stands by the couch. Jacob, sits, trying to
control tears.
                                                            
                       POLICE OFFICER
Your brother's Jeep was found
wrecked about four miles back. The
whole area's flooded. We don't
think he made it.
                                                            
 
INT. CABIN - LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
A small handful of moving boxes rest by the front door. Most
of the house remains in tact.
                                                            
Jacob carries a backpack and guitar and sets them by the
door.
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Jacob meanders in, makes his way to the window. His jaw
drops.
                                                            
OUT THE WINDOW
                                                            

101.

Hunter and April, backs to the cabin, hold hands, gazing at
the lake.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
                       JACOB
It's all yours.
                                                            
Jacob bites his lip, turns and walks away.
                                                            
 
EXT. CABIN DRIVEWAY - DAY
                                                            
Jacob in a U-Haul cruises down the dirt driveway. He pulls
away.
                                                            
Hunter and April watch from an upstairs cabin window. The
U-Haul pulls out of the driveway. Hunter and April vanish.
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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